WCBU Reports

With Logan Correctional Center set to close, Lincoln mayor urges state to not leave another mess

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 12:50:23 +0000

Mayor Tracy Welch wants to see the women's prison site remediated, unlike what happened two decades ago at the 100-acre Lincoln Developmental Center site. It's part of the City of Lincoln's multi-pronged strategy boosting economic development in the Logan County seat.

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Illinois' climate is changing. Should weather warnings change with it?

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 12:56:10 +0000

Illinois has already experienced a record-breaking number of tornadoes in 2026, but this year even thunderstorms are proving to be dangerous.

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Rep. LaHood says mail-in voting will not be disrupted; Trump should work on affordability

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 12:52:14 +0000

U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood spoke to WCBU during a stop in Peoria to announce federal appropriation money for an industrial park in the city. He gave his thoughts on current events including the federal deficit, mail-in voting and data centers.

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El Paso burial site of first Black man to vote in Illinois confirmed 121 years after his death

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 12:49:13 +0000

Several volunteers and local history buffs gathered around David Strother’s 1954 headstone to find out for certain if he and his family lay underneath.

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Can the WPBL be a long term success? Yes – if people are patient, experts say

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 13:09:45 +0000

Since Aug.1, the Women’s Pro Baseball League has been playing its inaugural season in Springfield. It’s the fifth league of its kind in U.S. history. Its players hope there is no need for a sixth.

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Up in the sky: National Weather Services focuses on creating trust with the public at open house

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 12:43:04 +0000

The National Weather Service in Lincoln opened its doors to the public on Saturday for the first time in 19 years, and wants to be more accessible in the future.

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Pritzker says state won't trade farmland for data centers during Central Illinois stop

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 12:34:39 +0000

Gov. JB Pritzker said he doesn't want to see Central Illinois farmland given up for data centers. He said the state should be pumping the brakes on the industry rather than rolling out the red carpet for it.

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Darren Bailey urges voter engagement, addresses local issues at Central Illinois GOP dinner

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 12:43:26 +0000

Speaking in Central Illinois, Republican candidate for governor Darren Bailey emphasized that despite his loss to incumbent Gov. JB Pritzker four years ago, he thinks Illinois residents are ready for change wherever they live. Jim Stahly reports.

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Central Illinois storyteller set to premiere audio drama series with big but human story

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 12:54:41 +0000

A new pulpy crime thriller audio drama series by a local writer premieres this Friday. The show is political, historical but ultimately an intimate story told on a big scale. WCBU correspondent Tim Rosenberger reports.

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A Central Illinois church, YouTube and the importance of local digital preservation

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 11:44:53 +0000

A Pekin pastor is calling for less automated moderation of internet content and for organizations to back up their history after the church's YouTube channel was deleted without warning in June.

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Mayor Ali views Phoenix Manor project as another key piece to revitalizing Peoria's South Side

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 11:44:17 +0000

Peoria Mayor Rita Ali remains steadfast in her belief that the planned Phoenix Manor permanent supportive housing development on the South Side ultimately will benefit the neighborhood.

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Rep. Sorensen questions president's decision on vaccines, threats to Air Force One

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 11:38:57 +0000

U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen is questioning some of the latest actions of President Donald Trump in the public and behind closed airplane doors.

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Governor candidates discuss estate tax, trade policies during ag forum in Central Illinois

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 12:04:40 +0000

Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker and Republican challenger Darren Bailey sounded off on issues important to farmers Monday during a visit to McLean County. The Illinois Agricultural Legislative Roundtable [IALR] hosted an agricultural forum at Funk Farms Trust in Shirley. Pritzker and Bailey talked about issues facing farmers, in addition to more general topics pertinent to the race for governor.

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Jamonica Rolle looks to build on foundation, community ties as new Illinois Central College president

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 12:04:00 +0000

Fall classes at Illinois Central College begin next week, and new president Jamonica Rolle says it’s a moment she's been waiting for since starting her position in July. In an extended interview, Rolle details what attracted her to ICC.

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Surgical safety invention dreamed up by OSF nurses is reducing surgery cancellation rates

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 12:44:00 +0000

DeviceWise, a program that helps hospital staff prepare patients with medical implants for surgery, has been in development for more than eight years. It's reduced cancellations in Peoria by 10%.

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Voting rights ‘Day of Action’ on Peoria’s South Side seeks to boost election participation

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 12:10:40 +0000

With the November general election approaching, several Peoria organizations are coming together for a push to get more people involved in the process, particularly on the city's South Side. “The initial thing is to get them registered, then educate them and then hopefully spur participation,” said the Rev. Marvin Hightower, president of NAACP Peoria, ahead of Saturday’s Voting Rights Day of Action on the lawn of the Peoria Public Library’s Lincoln Branch.

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Taking a look at Caterpillar's $10M pledge to bolster Illinois' manufacturing workforce

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 12:06:20 +0000

Caterpillar is making a $10 million workforce development pledge to boost manufacturing careers in Illinois, as part of a broader five-year, $100 million “Building the Future Workforce Initiative” global commitment the company launched in 2025.

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Stone & Snow returns to Central Illinois stomping grounds after a trip to the Great American State Fair

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 12:00:14 +0000

A Cincinnati-based Americana duo which used to call Bloomington-Normal home is returning to its stomping grounds, playing a trio of shows in Central Illinois next week. Stone & Snow's upcoming appearance in Peoria Heights is on the heels of an unexpected invitation to perform at the Great American State Fair.

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Peoria's architecture changed when Caterpillar didn't build its new headquarters Downtown

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 12:04:08 +0000

In the past, Peoria built things that could only have been built here — Victorian mansions on the bluffs, a sandstone city hall once voted the best in the country, a hillside of mid-century modern homes designed by local architects. But the buildings going up in the Peoria area lately tend to look the same — flat-roofed blocks of brick, metal panel, and glass — the kind of efficient, from-nowhere construction spreading across every mid-sized American city. It wasn't always like this.

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Weatherman-turned-congressman Eric Sorensen wants to guide weather preparedness from DC

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 12:05:10 +0000

Eric Sorensen is the only meteorologist serving in Congress. The former television weatherman is looking to use that experience to help shape federal policy to help keep Americans safe from weather disasters. Sorensen found a Republican colleague, U.S. Rep. Mike Flood of Nebraska — another former broadcaster — to help form the Weather Enterprise Caucus.

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Illinois Head Start Association shares stories of how immigration enforcement has impacted kids at their childcare centers

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:29:57 +0000

Immigration enforcement is ramping up again in Illinois. The Illinois Head Start Association recently released a report sharing anonymous community stories about how Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, activity has affected children at Head Start centers. IPR's Peter Medlin sat down with Illinois Head Start Executive Director Lauri Morrison-Frichtl to discuss the report.

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Silos are disappearing from the farm landscape. One woman wants to track them down before they do

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:38:54 +0000

Silos — tower-like structures on farms that hold fermented feed for livestock — have dotted the Midwestern landscape for 150 years. But they’re threatened by development and old age. One “silo hunter” in northern Illinois has been tracking down silos her grandfather built before they disappear.

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Gratus Choral Ensemble presents The Lost Birds

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 01:49:27 +0000

On this week’s episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Cory Boulton, Coordinator of Music Education and Director of Choral Activities at Bradley University, about The Lost Birds, an upcoming performance by the Gratus Choral Ensemble.

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American Heart Association expands prevention efforts in Bloomington-Normal

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 23:58:48 +0000

The American Heart Association is looking to broaden fundraising and prevention efforts to include more of Central Illinois. Historically, the group's focus has been on Champaign and Peoria. Dr. Colleen Blackburn, vice president of operations at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, wants to change that.

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Peoria city manager expresses frustration over ongoing issues with Downtown Riverview Plaza

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 02:34:48 +0000

The Riverview Plaza tower in Downtown Peoria has been shuttered for more than two years, as the city pushes building owner MJ Illinois to fix the fire suppression, sprinkler and electrical systems.

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Were the Pop-Up Chicken Shop firings legal?

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 04:15:51 +0000

Five employees of Pop-Up Chicken Shop lost their jobs on the Fourth of July after telling owner Aaron Francis they wouldn't work without the time-and-a-half listed in the company's employee handbook.

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East Peoria mayor discusses long-range plans, city growth and keeping the casino

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 11:47:48 +0000

In the resumption of a quarterly interview series, East Peoria Mayor John Kahl says optimizing city growth is a key component of the 20-year comprehensive plan adopted in January.

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New Department of Early Childhood launches full operations

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 11:05:44 +0000

As Illinois enters a new fiscal year, a new state agency is officially taking charge of a wide range of programs for infants, toddlers and their families. The Illinois Department of Early Childhood officially takes over as the agency in charge of programs ranging from in-home visits for newborns and their mothers to licensing and regulating childcare facilities and funding preschools. You'll hear from the agency's first director.

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Farmer faces $250K fine after pesticide drift near Morton school

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 11:53:11 +0000

A Morton farmer faces a potential $250,000 fine by the Illinois Department of Agriculture for allegedly applying pesticides on a farm near the Bethel Lutheran School while the school hosted an outdoor event.

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Sen. Durbin says president holding housing bill hostage won't last

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 11:49:50 +0000

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin says a housing bill is likely to become law even though President Trump is holding it hostage. The president is refusing sign what's called the 21st Century Road to Housing Act until Congress acts on his voting security bill. During a stop in Central Illinois, Durbin told reporters the threat will not kill the measure that has elements even the president supports. During questioning by reporter Charlie Schlenker, Durbin noted the housing package received strong bipartisan support.

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East Peoria runner Nicole Roberts carries flag during America's coast-to-coast relay

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:59:16 +0000

An East Peoria woman got a last-minute opportunity to take part the 250th July Fourth celebration, running a leg of Relay for America's non-stop flag carry from San Francisco to Washington, D.C.

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Girl Scouts of Central Illinois lands $90K grant to send girls to camp

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 12:39:26 +0000

Girl Scouts of Central Illinois has landed a competitive three-year, $90,000 grant from Girl Scouts of the USA that will send girls facing financial and social barriers to overnight summer camp — man, if not all, for the first time.

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Greater Peoria education, business leaders emphasize workforce readiness

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 12:03:41 +0000

Incoming Peoria Public Schools Superintendent Jerry Bell said he wants District 150 to work hand-in-hand with the business community in preparing students to meet evolving workforce needs. WCBU's Joe Deacon reports.

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Illinois leads the nation in confirmed tornadoes after hot and rainy spring season — most of them in Central Illinois

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 12:07:28 +0000

Illinois is leading the country in tornadoes this year and many of them have touched down in the state’s central region. Through a combination of fluctuating temperatures and a lot of precipitation, the National Weather Service [NWS] reports Illinois has seen 172 confirmed tornadoes this severe weather season. That's an all-time record for the state. Illinois State Climatologist Trent Ford said that is also at least twice the number of any other state.

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Peoria Riverfront Museum leader stresses inclusion in Great American State Fair is not political

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:25:03 +0000

The Peoria Riverfront Museum will represent Illinois with a pavilion on the National Mall as part of the upcoming Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence. WCBU's Joe Deacon reports.

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OSF Strive expands mental health services to more lives touched by violence, including young children

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:39:19 +0000

OSF Strive is expanding access to trauma-informed mental health services for victims and witnesses of violent crime in Peoria. WCBU's Rich Draeger reports.

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Hopedale hospital designated Illinois' shortest ER wait time in new study

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:50:33 +0000

The national average time to be seen by an emergency room doctor was two hours and 42 minutes. The longest in Illinois was over five hours. Hopedale Medical Center had an average wait time of only 50 minutes. WCBU's Tim Rosenberger reports.

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Peoria superintendent makes final push to save teacher grant as she prepares to leave district

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 11:31:56 +0000

Peoria School District 150 Superintendent Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat is using some of her final weeks in office to fight for continued funding of the Teacher Vacancy Grant, a state program she said transformed how the district recruits and keeps teachers.

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A great night for star-gazing with the Peoria Astronomical Society

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:19:53 +0000

Saturday night is the last sunset before the Summer Solstice, with Sunday as the longest day of the year. If the skies are clear, it could be a great night for star-gazing at the century-old Northmoor Observatory in Donovan Park. The Peoria Astronomical Society is in its 71st season of hosting public viewings each Saturday, from mid-May into October. Society president Dan Son and program chair Chris Schmidt talk tells WCBU's Joe Deacon what the viewings offer. Starting with Schmidt.

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State Rep. Sharon Chung reflects on media protections, data centers and more following the spring legislative session

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:07:40 +0000

State lawmakers passed a budget and prevented another gas tax hike this spring -- but did not take action to regulate data centers. State Rep. Sharon Chung of Bloomington tells WCBU state capitol correspondent Evan Holden she wants data center regulations -- but did not want to see Gov. JB Pritzker take away their tax breaks.

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State Sen. Sally Turner on gas prices, data center and ramming the state budget through

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 12:07:40 +0000

Republican state Sen. Sally Turner is reflecting on the end of the spring session with the culmination of another passage of the budget late into the night. WCBU's Evan Holden reports.

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'It's about the people': 50 years of friendship with Germany and a plea for the next generation

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 13:16:32 +0000

Peoria is marking 50 years as a sister city with Friedrichshafen, Germany. A delegation of about 25 from Germany recently flew to Peoria to meet with their sister city colleagues. Mayor Rita Ali and Sister City Commission chair Patrick Roesler spoke with WCBU's Molly Hughes at a recent anniversary dinner about what the milestone means for both cities.

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State Sen. Koehler on the end-of-session crunch and push for data center, insurance industry regulation

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:41:47 +0000

Democratic state Sen. Dave Koehler reflected on the end of this year's legislative session with bills failing to pass and several others squeaked through in the final hours of before the end of the spring session. WCBU's Evan Holden reports.

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Watchdog uncovers $50 million in overcharges in Illinois American Water's proposed rate hike

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 11:29:44 +0000

The Citizens Utility Board said Illinois American Water is trying to overcharge Illinois customers by more than $50 million through a rate hike request before state regulators. The consumer advocacy group is urging state regulators to reject both the rate increase and a proposed deal that would give the company a near-monopoly on private water in Illinois. WCBU's Molly Hughes reports.

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Peoria Mayor Ali on the potential impact of the Dee Hengst Amphitheater

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 11:47:13 +0000

Development of the Dee Hengst Amphitheater along the Illinois River in Peoria's Festival Park is advancing, with contracts approved for preliminary design, engineering and construction. The 5,000-seat outdoor performance venue is primarily funded by an $11 million donation to the city from the Hengst Foundation. In Part 2 of our latest regular interview with Peoria Mayor Rita Ali, she tells reporter Joe Deacon that the amphitheater will become an attraction that benefits the entire region.

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Peoria NAACP Branch celebrates Juneteenth with parade

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 11:29:54 +0000

Peoria will again celebrate Juneteenth with the 3rd annual Ernestine Jackson Freedom Day Parade. WCBU's Rich Draeger sat down with NAACP Peoria Branch President Marvin Hightower to talk about the NAACP, Ms. Jackson herself and why its important to celebrate and remember now more than ever.

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Peoria Mayor Ali explains opposition to statewide housing and zoning regulations

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 14:52:23 +0000

A push by Gov. JB Pritzker for unified zoning regulations across Illinois did not gain approval from state lawmakers in the spring legislative session. Pritzker's "Build Illinois" initiative aims to address a growing need for affordable and "missing middle" housing. But critics say the legislation stops takes oversight of housing developments away from cities. Peoria Mayor Rita Ali was among a coalition of mayors joining the Illinois Municipal League's opposition to the proposal. In our latest regular interview, Ali tells WCBU reporter Joe Deacon why.

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Peoria's new election commission director Jessily Joseph wants a boring election

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 11:48:31 +0000

Jessily Joseph was appointed executive director of the Peoria County Election Commission on May 21. "Success is having voters and citizens be confident in this process — and making voting accessible and secure," she told WCBU's Molly Hughes. That's the job ahead of her, with the Nov. 3 general election now less than six months away.

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Pesticide drift near Morton school prompts calls for prior notification from farmers

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 12:09:34 +0000

A state lawmaker sponsored a bill to require farmers spraying pesticides near a school or park to send an email 72 hours in advance notifying when they would be applying the pesticides. WCBU's Evan Holden reports.

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Sorensen says set rules for data centers, but don’t drive them away

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 12:46:19 +0000

U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen, who represents parts of Greater Peoria, doesn't want to block data centers from coming to Illinois. He also doesn't want them arriving without conditions and he's worried some data center developers will try to cut corners to get there.

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Sen. Durbin is hopeful, but skeptical, of Trump closing Iran deal

Thu, 28 May 2026 12:46:30 +0000

In a visit to Central Illinois this week, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin energized local Democrats at a private event at the IBEW Local 197 building. Durbin, hosted by the McLean County Democrats, spoke to a crowd of about 50 supporters about his views on issues like the war with Iran and redistricting, while reflecting on his upcoming retirement, and offering advice to candidates.

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How a new consortium seeks to strengthen Greater Peoria’s health care workforce pipeline

Wed, 27 May 2026 12:50:44 +0000

Peoria City Council member Kiran Velpula sees a new medial and educational partnership as a way to build the city’s health care workforce and boost the regional economy. Velpula, who is also an assistant professor at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria [UICOMP], is one of the driving forces behind the Greater Peoria Healthcare Education Consortium that officially launched last week after several years in development.

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Illinois has 279 new lawyers. The huge 4th judicial district got only 5

Thu, 21 May 2026 21:18:31 +0000

Connor Martin, who lives outside of Morton, said it is important for him to be a generalist in the legal profession so he can best represent his local community because there are so few lawyers in his region. WCBU's Evan Holden reports.

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Chief Dixon discusses his leadership, direction and goals for the Peoria Police Department

Wed, 20 May 2026 12:57:01 +0000

New Peoria Police Chief Brad Dixon says the city deserves a police department that communicates openly, acts with integrity, and earns the public’s trust.

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In an era of hostility, press protections remain strong in Illinois

Tue, 19 May 2026 11:33:40 +0000

With uncertainty surrounding press protections at the national level, the state of Illinois holds a strong reporter privilege statute. That’s according to Don Craven, general counsel for Illinois Press Association and three other statewide journalism organizations. He’s held the job protecting journalists in court and legal litigation since the mid-1980s

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New Peoria tattoo parlor a fresh start steeped in history, progress — and family

Mon, 18 May 2026 12:51:22 +0000

Four Peoria tattoo artists are continuing their late-mentor’s work in the ever-changing world of tattooing with their own shop located downtown.

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Peoria comedy club illustrates how $16 billion in pandemic relief missed the places that needed it most

Thu, 14 May 2026 12:48:28 +0000

For the first two decades Dan Conlin owned the Jukebox Comedy Club, the money from the previous week's shows pays for the next one. Shows, bills, another week, another show. Then came the pandemic.

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Rep. Sorensen questions Hegseth about Rock Island layoffs, voiding union contracts

Wed, 13 May 2026 12:43:11 +0000

U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen isn’t satisfied with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's answers about military layoffs in his Central Illinois district. Sorensen questioned Hegseth about the decision to cut up to 150 jobs at Rock Island Arsenal during a hearing held by the House Armed Services Committee on April 29.

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Why Peoria is considering helping Twin Towers Place repairs and renovations

Tue, 12 May 2026 12:46:32 +0000

The City of Peoria is considering a funding plan to help the Twin Towers Place condominiums pay for needed repairs and renovations.

But City Manager Patrick Urich points out that no money has been allocated quite yet. Rather, the city may look to establish a special service area to generate the funds.

Urich notes Peoria has used special service areas elsewhere in the city to assist with needed improvements or added services - such as around Junction City, the Louisville Slugger sports complex, and the Westlake and Grand Prairie shopping centers.

He says the Twin Towers condos may not have streets to maintain, but they are a "vertical neighborhood" that merits similar consideration for financial assistance.

Urich says any up-front money provided by the city would be paid back entirely over time ... and Peoria's financial risk would be minimal.

In part two of our latest regular interview, Urich tells reporter Joe Deacon how the special services area process would work for funding the Twin Towers renovations ... noting the buildings had a fire a number of years ago and had to exhaust all of their financial reserves.

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Urich offers Spring Street option for marina access if Caroline Street turns private

Mon, 11 May 2026 12:49:02 +0000

A pending property sale that would see O'Brien Steel acquire land near the Illinois River from the Detweiller Trust has drawn scrutiny from community members over the potential loss of river access and green space.

Last week, the Peoria Park District Board narrowly voted down a proposal tied to the sale that would expanded the right-of-way along the Rock Island Greenway Trail in the area.

Another potential aspect of the sale would see the City of Peoria vacate Caroline Street near the Detweiller Marina.

As part of our regular interview series, Peoria City Manager Patrick Urich talks with reporter Joe Deacon about the city's possible involvement in the process.

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Rep. LaHood on why he voted for the new Farm Bill

Thu, 07 May 2026 12:41:53 +0000

The new Farm Bill that the U.S. House has approved faces an uncertain future in the Senate. Lawmakers remain at odds over food assistance and year-round use of ethanol in fuel. Republican U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood voted for the Farm Bill. In this interview with WCBU reporter Joe Deaon, LaHood says the measure was a necessary compromise.

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Rep. LaHood talks about the war in Iran and soaring gas prices

Wed, 06 May 2026 12:48:17 +0000

Gas prices keep soaring as the U-S war in Iran shows no end in sight. In this interview with WCBU reporter Joe Deacon, Peoria-area Republican Congressman Darin LaHood says he's ready to see the Trump administration find a way out of this war -- to help bring down fuel prices soon.

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State lawmakers consider legislation to rein in new data center proposals

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 12:45:07 +0000

Illinois has one of the highest number of data centers in the country. But as residents worry about their water and electricity use, state lawmakers are considering legislation to rein in new data center proposals.

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Retiring Peoria police chief reflects on his tenure, touts department's advancements

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:48:38 +0000

Retiring Peoria Police Chief Eric Echevarria believes the department is in a better place than when he took the job five years ago. This is Part 2 of our interview with the retiring police chief.

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Echevarria to retire as Peoria police chief; Dixon tabbed as successor

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 12:55:32 +0000

Police Chief Eric Echevarria informed the city he will retire as of May 15, after serving nearly five years in the role. WCBU's Joe Deacon talks to Echevarria about his record and what's next.

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Women are less likely to receive CPR in an emergency. A state lawmaker wants to change that

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:51:08 +0000

An Illinois lawmaker has proposed a bill to require high schools to provide female manikins for CPR training. Women are 27% less likely to receive CPR from a bystander than men because of concerns of inappropriate touching, exposing of the chest or accusations of sexual assault, according to the Journal of the American Heart Association.

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Interview with new OSF HealthCare CEO Michelle Conger

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:48:16 +0000

It's been a long leadership transition for one of the area's largest employers. Michelle Conger has taken over as CEO of OSF HealthCare following the retirement of Bob Sehring. Those plans were announced in 2024. Conger, who was been with O-S-F for several decades, tells WCBU reporter Joe Deacon why they set up the transition that way.

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Pekin union painter shares the value of apprenticeships in a statewide professional development program

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 12:42:07 +0000

Christina Harms is a union painter with Peoria-based Mid-Illinois Companies and Associated Constructors in Bloomington. She's also part of a cohort of apprentice ambassadors advocating for apprenticeship as a path toward a variety of careers.

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Mayor Ali eager to see downtown growth from traffic pattern change, other planned projects

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:47:06 +0000

The multi-year project to convert Adams Street and Jefferson Avenue to two-way traffic in downtown Peoria is on track to be completed by early summer, and Mayor Rita Ali is eager to see the anticipated benefits for the area.

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James Shadid reflects on first year as Bradley's president

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

It's been one year since James Shadid took over as its 13th president at Bradley University. Shadid tells WCBU reporter Joe Deacon the first year on campus has been a "whirlwind."

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Rep. Sharon Chung wants to limit corporate money in elections

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

An Illinois lawmaker from Bloomington wants to limit corporate money in elections, but it could face legal challenges. Democratic state Rep. Sharon Chung, who represents parts of Bloomington-Normal and Peoria plus rural areas along Interstate 74, has introduced a bill that would change the definition of corporation powers in the law by stating corporations cannot engage in activities related to primaries or elections. WCBU's Evan Holden reports.

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Central Illinois lawmaker joins calls to reform the Pretrial Fairness Act when it comes to domestic violence

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

A Republican state lawmaker has joined Central Illinois law enforcement in calling for changes to the state's landmark criminal justice reform bill called the SAFE-T Act, but Democrats want to wait for more data before making a decision.

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Peoria County State's Attorney Jodi Hoos reflects on trends and data from 2025

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

An annual report released this month by the Peoria County State's Attorney's Office offers a statistical look at criminal justice in 2025. Highlights include charges filed in all 12 of the year's homicides, a 40% decrease in drug charges, and more than 350 juvenile cases filed. State's Attorney Jodi Hoos says it's the first time her office has produced a snapshot look at their side of the local legal system. WCBU reporter Joe Deacon talks with Hoos about what she views as the successes of her department in the past year.

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Illinois lawmakers look to regulate data centers as local governments propose their own rules

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Several local governments in Central Illinois are looking to create their own data center regulations as Illinois lawmakers have yet to take action regulating this emerging industry. Data centers are seen as key to fueling an AI revolution. Critics worry they could drain water and electricity supplies that are needed to power them. WCBU's Evan Holden reports.

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It's eagle nesting season in Illinois. One nesting pair calls a Illinois state park home

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The bald eagle used to be a rare sight in Illinois. Now, there are more than 3,000 that spend the winter here. IPR's Jess Savage reports.

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Illinois lawmakers consider removing the 2-year foreign language requirement for high school

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Two Illinois lawmakers have introduced a bill that would remove the two-year foreign language requirement for high school.

The requirement was signed into law in 2021 but does not go into effect until 2028. High school students will need to have completed the requirement to graduate.

State Rep. Travis Weaver, representing a rural area between Peoria and the Quad Cities, is the Republican sponsor of the bill to have the requirement dropped.

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Q&A with Patrick Urich about redevelopment plans in downtown

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000

The City of Peoria is getting closer to unveiling redevelopment plans for the downtown block anchored by PNC Bank Building. City Manager Patrick Urich says they received proposals from three developers, and they've been in talks with the one of them about the desired vision for the three properties currently owned by the city. WCBU reporter Joe Deacon talks with Urich about a range of other topics, including the latest on plans for the block.

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Rep. Sorensen sees no end in sight to partial government shutdown

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 22:48:03 +0000

U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen said the partial government shutdown, now in its fifth day, is the only way to force Republicans to the negotiating table. WCBU's Lauren Warnecke spoke with Sorensen.

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Ranked choice voting stalled in Illinois, waiting for clarity from the courts

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 20:48:13 +0000

Several Illinois municipalities are trying to implement ranked choice voting, but confusion about Illinois election law has slowed the implementation process. Several lawmakers are trying to change that. WCBU state capitol correspondent Evan Holden reports.

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Despite concerns, LaHood doesn't break with administration over vaccinations

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0000

In an interview with WCBU and WGLT, U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood is expressing some concerns about vaccine policy but is not breaking with the Trump administration’s broader approach, emphasizing the importance of vaccines while also calling for transparency and public trust.

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Q&A: Pastor Brian Russell eager to bring new ministry to East Bluff in former St. Bernard’s church

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 23:18:56 +0000

The former Saint Bernard’s Catholic Church in Peoria’s East Bluff neighborhood soon will be home to a new ministry. Centerpoint Community Church Pastor Brian Russell hopes to carry Saint Bernard’s spiritual legacy forward.

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OSF, ImpactLife help provide blood services to Eureka-Goodfield EMS

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Eureka-Goodfield EMS will be the first service in Illinois to offer a pre-hospital blood transfusion program. Two ambulances will now carry two units of O-positive red blood cells and two units of plasma. Dr. Matthew Jackson, medical director of pre-hospital and EMS at OSF HealthCare, tells student reporter Ben Howell why this area of patient care has been growing.

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OSF adds 'Victoria' to OB-GYN team, pushing emergency preparedness in mobile maternal care

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0000

OSF HealthCare has added a new member to its OB-GYN training team. “Victoria” is a high-tech birthing simulator that can replicate a variety of birth emergencies, including rare, high-risk complications. An addition to the mobile maternity care unit, “Victoria” provides advanced practice providers [APPs] with the skillset to effectively prepare for any situation they come across on the road.

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Republican candidates for governor appear at Tazewell County GOP's forum

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 20:43:28 +0000

The four Republican Party candidates for governor of Illinois told a Central Illinois audience Thursday evening they favor property tax caps, pension reform, ending Illinois' status as a "sanctuary state," and rolling back the SAFE-T criminal justice reform act which ended cash bail.

About 500 people heard from former state Sen. Darren Bailey, the party’s 2022 gubernatorial nominee; Ted Dabrowski, former president of conservative think tank Wirepoints; two-term DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick; and Barrington Hills real estate developer and Gold Rush Gaming owner Rick Heidner.

The Tazewell County GOP hosted the forum in Washington, Illinois.

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Central Illinois veterans hockey team supports each other, on and off the ice

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 13:56:38 +0000

The Veteran Warriors hockey team touts itself as the only sports program in Central Illinois dedicated to rehabilitation and therapy for disabled veterans. They strive to provide a buddy-check support system and an experience for veterans suffering from PTSD, substance abuse, or other issues.

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Q&A: Chris Kaergard, League of Women Voters of Greater Peoria

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 22:18:21 +0000

League of Women Voters of Greater Peoria President Chris Kaergard speaks to WCBU reporter Joe Deacon about Monday night's “Refuse to be Silenced” teach-in speaking engagement, featuring five area leaders discussing the possible local impacts from the “Big Beautiful Bill” and other federal policies.

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Q&A: Grayeb discusses his 24-year tenure on the Peoria City Council

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 20:52:46 +0000

Chuck Grayeb’s last regular Peoria City Council meeting is Tuesday, as his 24-year tenure is drawing to a close.

Grayeb originally served three terms as an at-large council member, and now has spent the last 12 years as the District 2 representative.

Heading into his final weeks as a council member, Grayeb spoke to WCBU reporter Joe Deacon to reflect on his years of service.

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LaHood discusses town halls, DOGE cuts and Trump policies

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 19:09:32 +0000

Amid recent calls to host a town hall meeting with constituents, U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood said he frequently makes himself available to the public.

“I come back every single weekend to my district. I meet with any constituent that wants to meet with me. I’ve had numerous telephone town halls. In the past, I’ve had lots of town halls throughout my district,” said LaHood.

The Dunlap Republican did not commit one way or another to holding a town hall. Earlier this month, the National Republican Congressional Committee discouraged House Republicans from holding in-person town halls to avoid confrontations.

“Anybody that wants to meet with me, I will meet with them,” said LaHood, whose 16th District includes parts of Peoria, McLean, Tazewell and Woodford counties visited the Peoria area Wednesday.

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Busy Corner welcomes customers back over busy reopening weekend

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 22:39:27 +0000

A popular, decades-old Woodford County eatery is fully reopened after a November fire led to a prolonged closure.

Busy Corner in Goodfield started welcoming customers back into the building Thursday, four months to the day after the overnight blaze caused significant interior damage.

For owner Derek Vollmer, the timing could not have worked out much better.

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Illinois state climatologist Ford highlights concerns over NWS, NOAA cuts

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 23:08:16 +0000

Among the agencies targeted for staff reductions by the Trump Administration are the National Weather Service and its parent agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Illinois State Climatologist Trent Ford says the cuts will have wide-ranging detrimental effects.

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New DDC leader Waible examines challenges, opportunities for downtown Peoria

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 21:44:28 +0000

Chris Waible is nearly four months into his new position as the president and CEO of Peoria's non-profit Downtown Development Corporation.

The Peoria native is back in his hometown after spending the past four years working in real estate business development in Wisconsin. He takes over leadership of the DDC from Michael Freilinger, the organization's original president and CEO who retired after 11 years.

Waible joins the challenge to restore vibrancy to Peoria's downtown amid a glut of vacant office space and a need for reinvestment. He explains why that's an opportunity he's eager to tackle.

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Q&A: Urich discusses downtown efforts, provides building status updates

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 23:01:12 +0000

Peoria City leaders continue to explore possible opportunities to restore vibrancy to the downtown area.

Last fall, the city purchased the PNC Bank building, also known as the Tower on Adams complex, in hopes of attracting a private developer to pursue a mixed use, commercial and residential development.

Meanwhile, the Riverview Plaza tower commonly known as the Chase Bank building remains shut down due to code violations that remain unresolved.

City Manager Patrick Urich discusses how Peoria is eager to find ways to bring more people to the central business district.

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Peoria County Regional Superintendent Crider discusses impacts from potential elimination of Education Department

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 18:48:15 +0000

The Trump Administration’s plans sweeping cuts to curtail federal spending have put the U.S. Department of Education in the crosshairs. How much of an impact could a potential dissolution of the federal Education Department have on public schools in Peoria County?

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Yunus carries Afterfund’s quest to help nonprofits with their funding from Europe back home to Peoria

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 23:30:59 +0000

A lengthy career in the finance world has taken Omar Yunus from Peoria to Europe and now back, as he works to grow a startup aimed at helping nonprofit organizations find sustainable funding.

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Research: Smoke from California wildfires often brings increased air pollution to Midwest

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 18:17:57 +0000

The dangers of air pollution from the smoke generated by West Coast wildfires can be more widespread and long-term, potentially impacting Central Illinois.

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East Peoria Mayor Kahl addresses possibility of casino relocation: ‘I’ve not moved from my stance’

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

With owner Boyd Gaming preparing plans for a new gambling facility, Peoria city leaders have taken steps to make sure any land-based casino is located within their city’s boundaries. But what does this mean for East Peoria?

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Struggling Peorians find a place to call home through city rent assistance program

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

A City of Peoria program is helping unhoused people overcome the last few barriers between them and a home.

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Wild rice dwindled in parts of the Upper Midwest. Now efforts are underway to bring it back

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 21:37:07 +0000

Wild rice grows in shallow waterways in the Great Lakes region and parts of Canada. It’s a plant that holds important ecological and cultural significance, but it’s been on the decline since the early 1900s.

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Meet the 3 candidates running to replace Chuck Grayeb in Peoria City Council District 2

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Three candidates want to represent the district that includes downtown, much of the West and Center Bluffs, and a swath of Central Peoria that runs up to Glen Ave. That area also includes major higher ed institutions like Illinois Central College and Bradley University.

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Midwest builders are using wood in a new way to construct high rises. And it's climate-friendly

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

A wood building material can be used in high-rise structures, giving it the potential to replace materials that are bad for the climate, while also locking carbon into buildings for decades.

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